Walker Might Not Play

A day after Samaki Walker hyperextended his elbow against the Portland Trail Blazers, the smile had faded from the Laker backup center’s face.

Initial X-rays taken Sunday afternoon had shown no serious damage, leaving Walker hopeful he would be much improved by Monday. But the elbow was swollen Monday morning, and he underwent an MRI exam Monday afternoon.

“It’s a game-time decision,” Coach Phil Jackson said of Walker’s availability for tonight.

Walker was hurt when he locked arms with Portland’s Shawn Kemp and received a strong jolt.

With the return of center Shaquille O’Neal tonight, Jelani McCoy was going to be the odd man out. But if Walker’s injury is deemed more serious, he could be placed on the injured list.

TONIGHT

vs. Boston, 7:30, Fox Sports Net

Site--Staples Center.

Radio--KLAC (570).

Records--Lakers 35-15, Celtics 30-23.

Record vs. Celtics (2000-01)--2-0.

Update--Bad timing: The Celtics, playing in their fifth city in eight days on a seven-game trip, arrive just as Laker center Shaquille O’Neal returns from the injured list. Boston won at Denver and Portland but lost at Seattle and Golden State, with Dallas and Houston left on the itinerary.

Steve Springer